Bird size and appearance: Red-tailed Hawks are large raptors, with a wingspan of around 4-5 feet. They have mostly dark brown feathers with a distinctive reddish-brown tail. Juvenile Red-tailed Hawks (hatch-year) have more white in their plumage, making them appear mottled or pale.
Beak shape and color: Red-tailed Hawks have a hooked beak that is used for tearing prey. The beak is typically black or dark brown.
Wings and tail: As you mentioned, Red-tailed Hawks have long and broad wings that help them soar efficiently in the air. They also have a long tail that helps with stability during flight and while perched.
Patch on crown: Juvenile Red-tailed Hawks often have a pale patch on the crown of their head. This patch is called the "capital patch" and is a distinctive feature of young Red-tailed Hawks. As the hawk ages, the capital patch usually disappears.
Given the combination of these characteristics, it's likely that the bird you observed was a Red-tailed Hawk. However, it's always a good idea to cross-check your observations with other reliable sources or field guides to confirm the identification.